SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go has filed a measure seeking to integrate constitutional education into the basic education curriculum to help develop informed, responsible, and civically engaged Filipino citizens.

Senate Bill No. 2332, or the proposed Constitutional Education Act, directs the Department of Education (DepEd) to incorporate lessons on the Philippine Constitution beginning in Grade 1, with discussions tailored according to the age and learning level of students.

Go said the proposal aims to ensure that young Filipinos understand the country’s fundamental law, including the rights, freedoms, duties, and responsibilities of every citizen.

“The Constitution is the foundation of our government and the rights of every Filipino. Our youth should learn at an early age how it protects them and what responsibilities they have to the nation,” Go said.

The senator underscored the growing importance of constitutional literacy amid the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation, especially on digital platforms.

He emphasized that constitutional education should go beyond memorizing provisions and should instead help students understand how constitutional principles apply to their daily lives, their communities, and their role in nation-building.

Under the proposed measure, the curriculum will cover the history and general principles of the Constitution, nationalism and sovereignty, national territory, state policies, the national economy and patrimony, as well as the structure and processes of government.

Students will also learn about citizenship and suffrage, social justice and human rights, the rights and duties of citizens, local government, constitutional commissions, accountability of public officials, and relevant jurisprudence.

The bill also seeks to promote active citizenship by encouraging students to understand democratic processes and their role in protecting public institutions, upholding accountability, and contributing to national development.

To provide learners with practical civic experience, all schools will be required to observe Constitution Day every February 2 through student-led activities such as forums, debates, mock elections, and other programs that promote participatory democracy.

Go said students should not only know the provisions of the Constitution but also understand how to apply its principles through civic participation, respect for the rights of others, and responsible citizenship.

The measure further directs DepEd to coordinate with the Supreme Court, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), and legal educational institutions in developing teacher training and certification programs to ensure that constitutional concepts are taught accurately and effectively.

If enacted, DepEd will have 90 days from the law’s approval to formulate the implementing rules and regulations in consultation with the Supreme Court, IBP, and other stakeholders.

Go expressed hope that the proposed law would help produce a new generation of Filipinos who are aware of their rights, mindful of their responsibilities, and prepared to participate meaningfully in democratic governance.